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13 SEER Air Conditioner Higher SEER Requirements for 2006 Like many consumer products that use energy, air conditioners and heat pumps are manufactured to meet or exceed min

Higher SEER Requirements for 2006

Like many consumer products that use energy, air conditioners and heat pumps are manufactured to meet or exceed minimum efficiency standards set by the U.S. Department of Energy. After nearly a decade with 10 SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) as the minimum efficiency, January 23, 2006 marks the mandated increase to 13 SEER.

Who will this affect?

The 13 SEER minimum applies to all new equipment manufactured on or after January 23, 2006. You may continue to use your current system indefinitely, even if it operates below 13 SEER, but when it's time to replace your system, only 13 SEER or higher models will be available.

Higher SEER means cost-savings and energy efficiency

For many homeowners, a 13 SEER air conditioner will save money on each month's electric bill. Exactly how much you can save will depend on the efficiency of your current system. For example, a 13 SEER product:

Delivers about 23% energy savings compared to 10 SEER models

Delivers about 8% energy savings compared to 12 SEER models

Actual savings will depend on the age, efficiency and condition of the unit being replaced, but if you are currently considering a new air conditioner or heat pump, it makes sense to start saving now with a 13 SEER product.

American Air Conditioning Hawaii offers several air conditioners that meet and exceed the 13 SEER requirement—even up to an industry high 21 SEER.

To learn more about the 2006 13 SEER efficiency mandate, visit www.energy.gov.